The Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo region is one of the more popular vacation destinations for those seeking a Mexico beach vacation. Although they are two distinct cities, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are often lumped together because of their proximity and their shared focus on tourism. They are located about 150 miles north of Acapulco, sharing the same stretch of the Costa Grande, but with fewer crowds and a more traditional atmosphere.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is the third most popular tourist area in Mexico (after Cancun and Puerto Vallarta). It is known around the world as an ideal destination for history buffs and sports fisherman, as well as families who want to enjoy coastal Mexico without the traditionally young and unruly crowds associated with spring break destinations.

Things to Do in Zihuatanejo

A Mexican beach vacation comes with all sorts of itinerary options. In addition to the popular activities of sunbathing and enjoying the beach, there are shops, restaurants, nightclubs, historical ruins, museums, and eco-tourism sites. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy surfing and snorkeling, as well as fishing, which remains one of the most popular options here.

Of course, not all the great locations are within city boundaries. Some of the best historical sites require a day trip closer to the country’s interior. The upscale shopping and nightlife of Ixtapa are a small distance from the waterfront center of Zihuatanejo, and are often best enjoyed on a quick weekend away.

And if what you really want is a real secret paradise, where the crowds disappear only to leave sun, sand, surf, and an incredible luxury vacation opportunity, a forty-five minute trip north is all you need. Troncones, Mexico is a small fishing village located in the same state, and with the same great tropical backdrop. But instead of crowds of people and the noise of a metropolitan center, the only things you’ll see and hear are the typical side effects of a tropical beach villa: silence and nature.

Troncones, Mexico

The history of Troncones is one of a fishing village that remained untouched by commerce and industry for centuries. The town didn’t open up to tourism until the mid-twentieth century, and even then on a small scale that enticed those looking for adventure away from the city centers. Today, it remains an almost hidden gem of a destination—but that doesn’t mean you won’t find plenty to see and do. A brief list of activities here might include:

Horseback Riding

Yoga

Tennis

Golf

Fishing

Surfing/Longboarding

Kiteboarding

Swimming

Boating

Snorkeling

Beachcombing

Sea Turtle/Whale Watching

Weddings

Fine Dining

Eco-Tours

Of course, this list doesn’t even begin to touch all the romantic possibilities of a private villa for two. Romantic walks on the beach, a day spent hand-in-hand on the sand, or even the luxury accommodations of your private facilities offer endless opportunities to enjoy your Mexico beach vacation.

If you are planning a trip to coastal Mexico, be sure and include Troncones on your list of possibilities. Close enough to city centers to provide everything you need, but remote enough to offer everything you want, it’s the ideal tropical vacation destination.